Ice Hockey: North Penn pounds Abington

UPPER MORELAND — The North Penn ice hockey team is making a habit of mercy rules and pulled goalies. On Thursday Abington became the most recent victim of the Knights’ attack. The Galloping Ghosts goaltender was unable to make it through the second period before he was replaced.

The new blood between the pipes did not make a difference as the referees called off the hounds with nine minutes left in the game, for an 11-1 win at Wintersports Arena.

For those counting at home, since a 4-3 loss to Souderton to start the season, the Knights have scored 41 goals in five games. And clearly it is not one person, because you do not average more than eight goals per game like they have done in that span because of one superstar.

“We have a lot of guys that can put the puck in the net,” Knights’ coach Kevin Vaitis said. “We have a lot of talent and when we get them going things like tonight can happen. We have a full team back and healthy and the last couple of games we have been clicking.”

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However, leading the Knights in points and to a 4-1-1 record is junior Christian Ahn. Ever since a breakout postseason last March, the center has been a catalyst in front of the net.

“Christian came into his own against Pennsbury and Council Rock South in the Suburban League playoffs,” Vaitis said. “He had seven goals in two games. That is when he came out of his shell. He is a great player. He is fast, physical, strong, and he has great instincts. He is a terrific kid to coach.”

Ahn grew up in South Korea playing soccer, but was introduced to the sport he has grown to love by his cousin before he moved to North Wales in fifth grade. His cousin, who is five years older, still plays professionally in South Korea.

“My cousin inspired me,” Ahn said. “I have always looked up to him. I used to practice with him all of the time. But when I was in fifth grade was the last time I have seen him.”

Ahn has now been on skates for seven years and has had to work hard to become the player and leader he is today for the Knights. He remembers those days as a freshman with the Knights where ice time was limited.

“I was riding the bench freshman year,” Ahn said. “I was inspired the first time I went to my cousin’s game. I have just worked hard to get better.”

Ahn and the Knights are taking satisfaction in being unstoppable. But experiences such as last year when they played the Ghosts remind them to never feel comfortable and always continue to be the aggressor.

“Last year against Abington we were down 5-0 before we came back to win 12-5,” Vaitis said. “Tonight we pressured the puck in our own zone and did not give them time to set up. Once we get possession we can take off.”

So whether the score is 11-1 in early December or a nail-biter in March, this experienced group is ready to put their hard work to good use. With leaders like Matt Barkley and Caleb Witzaney, and scoring machines such as Alex Peterson, Jeremy Snyder and Ahn, the Knights have put the SHSHL on notice.

“We have good chemistry,” Ahn said. “We do not underestimate any team. This year we want to win the Flyers Cup. With this group, it is definitely possible.”